Ultrasound Evaluation of Achilles Tendon Thickness in Diabetic Patients With and Without Foot Complications

Abstract

Introduction Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multifaceted metabolic disorder distinguished by elevated blood sugar levels. Type 2-DM (T2DM) stands as a significant contributor to disability due to its widespread occurrence of microvascular and macrovascular complications. According to certain researchers, prolonged elevated blood sugar levels have been observed to trigger a sequence of irregular alterations in the Achilles tendon (AT). AT thickness is one such indicator of these alterations. Methods This was a prospective study carried out on 51 individuals which was further divided into 3 groups (Group A - Normal individuals, Group B - DM without foot complications, Group C - DM with foot complications) with 17 individuals in each as healthy, DM with foot complications and without complications at Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College over a period of one year. The patients' demographics, basic medical records, and laboratory test results were examined and analyzed. Results The mean age of the study participants was 55.41 + 10.25 years. There was no significant difference in age and gender between the three groups. There was a significant difference in mean AT thickness between the groups (p<0.05). The mean thickness of AT was higher in Group C compared to Group B. Group A had the least AT thickness. However, there was no correlation between the variables in individual groups. Conclusions Modifications in the AT's structure may occur before the onset of foot and ankle issues in individuals with diabetes. Hence, the thickening of the AT can be used as an early indicator of impending diabetic foot complications.